The journey from Gunji/Nabi to Adikailash is a remarkable pilgrimage that attracts many devotees and adventurers alike. Situated in the far northern region of Uttarakhand, India, Adikailash is believed to be the original site of the revered Kailash Mountain before the legendary Kailash Mansarovar in Tibet became famous.
Gunji, a remote village in Uttarakhand, serves as the starting point for this sacred journey. It lies near the border between India and Nepal, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and pristine rivers. Nabi, a small hamlet en route to Adikailash, also provides trekkers with an opportunity to rest and prepare for the final leg of their journey.
Adikailash, at an altitude of around 4,600 meters, is a place of immense spiritual significance for followers of Lord Shiva. The trek involves navigating through difficult terrain, crossing rivers, and ascending steep mountain paths. However, despite the challenges, the beauty of the landscape and the spiritual aura of the place make it a life-changing experience for those who undertake it.
Along the way, trekkers pass through lush forests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude deserts. The journey is not just a physical challenge but also a mental and spiritual one, as trekkers connect with nature and experience a sense of tranquility that is hard to find elsewhere.
The destination, Adikailash, is home to the Adi Kailash Temple, a small shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. This is where devotees believe Lord Shiva once resided before moving to Tibet. The temple, though relatively simple, is a place of immense reverence. It is believed that performing a parikrama (circumambulation) around the temple brings blessings and peace to the devotee.
The trek from Gunji/Nabi to Adikailash is a unique experience combining spirituality, nature, and adventure. It is a lesser-known but equally mesmerizing alternative to the more popular Kailash Mansarovar trek.
The Gunji/Nabi to Adikailash trek is an extraordinary adventure that combines physical endurance with spiritual fulfillment. Whether you're an avid trekker or someone seeking a deeper connection with nature and spirituality, this journey offers a unique opportunity to witness some of the most stunning landscapes while paying homage to one of the most sacred sites in Hinduism.
Though the trek is demanding, the rewards in terms of inner peace and spiritual enlightenment make it worth every step. As you reach Adikailash and stand in the presence of the revered Adi Kailash Temple, you’ll realize that this journey is not just about reaching a destination, but about the transformation that takes place along the way.